Non award bearing | Page 49 | Institute of Continuing Education (ICE)

Type ref:

Course code:

2324NOE008

Start date:

Monday, 4 September, 2023 - 01:00 to Sunday, 22 October, 2023 - 01:00

Apply by:

Monday, 4 September, 2023 - 01:00

Course tutor id:

1376

Dr Maty Matyszak

Course ID:

30943

Tuition fee:

£305

Course programme:

Online Courses

Duration description:

7 Weeks

Non-accredited

Course photo:

City or Town:

Postcode:

Single capacity:

Double capacity:

Twin capacity:

Single usage:

Double usage:

Twin usage:

Maximum places:

Booked places:

Course cancelled:

false

course status ref:

booking destination ref:

Tutor role ref:

Purpose ref:

Study mode ref:

tab1name:

Overview

tab1html:

Aims of the course

To explain why and how Alexander conquered the Achaemenid Persian Empire and the consequences thereof.

Schedule (this course is completed entirely online)

Orientation Week: 4-10 September 2023

Teaching Weeks: 11 September-15 October 2023

Feedback Week: 16-22 October 2023

Teaching week 1 - Macedon before Alexander

This week we will discover how Macedon rose to prominence in the Greek world, and to learn the nature of Macedonian kingship and Macedon's relationship with Greece.

Learning objectives:

an understanding of Macedonian demographics and geography
some understanding of how to use archaeology and the original sources in research

Teaching week 2 - The Persian Empire

This week we will aim to see Greece from the Persian perspective. We will also examine the extent and age of civilisation in western and central Asia. Finally, we will look at the foundation and evolution of the Achaemenid Persian empire.

Learning objectives:

an understanding of the history of civilisation in Anatolia and Mesopotamia
an understanding of the nature of the Persian empire
a basic knowledge of the Persian/Greek wars

Teaching week 3 -

This week will introduce Philip II and the Macedonian takeover of Greece. We will also look at the demographics and socio-political structure of Greece, and the Greek and Macedonian military systems.

Learning objectives:

an understanding of Greece in the third century BC
knowledge of the fundamentals of ancient warfare
an acquaintance with Demosthenes

Teaching week 4 - Alexander the Conqueror

This week we will look at how Alexander conquered the Persian Empire, as well as looking at what his motives for doing so were.

Learning objectives:

understanding the chronology and reasons for conquest
observe the tactics used in the major battles and sieges
see why the political and ethnic composition of the Persian empire made conquest possible

Teaching week 5 - Alexander's legacy

This week we will look at the result of Alexander's conquest for posterity, the Diadochi, the Hellenistic kingdoms, and Alexander as a dubious inspiration in ancient and modern times.

Learning objectives:

an understanding of the Hellenistic East
the contribution of the Hellenistic East to the Roman and Byzantine empires
questioning why Alexander is perceived as a heroic figure

Each week of an online course is roughly equivalent to 2-3 hours of classroom time. On top of this, participants should expect to spend roughly 2-3 hours reading material, etc., although this will vary from person to person.

While they have a specific start and end date and will follow a weekly schedule (for example, week 1 will cover topic A, week 2 will cover topic B), our tutor-led online courses are designed to be flexible and as such would normally not require participants to be online for a specific day of the week or time of the day (although some tutors may try to schedule times where participants can be online together for web seminars, which will be recorded so that those who are unable to be online at certain times are able to access material).

Virtual Learning Environment

Unless otherwise stated, all course material will be posted on the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) so that they can be accessed at any time throughout the duration of the course and interaction with your tutor and fellow participants will take place through a variety of different ways which will allow for both synchronous and asynchronous learning (discussion boards etc).

Certificate of participation

A Certificate of Participation will be awarded to participants who contribute constructively to weekly discussions and exercises/assignments for the duration of the course.

What our students say:

''This is another fantastic course. Alexander the Great is such an interesting historical figure that deserves an in-depth study. Though the short span of the course is barely sufficient to do justice to Alexander, the tutor did a marvellous job in this regard. The “Further Reading” sections provide sufficient pertinent information for me to chew over in the weeks to come whereas the tutor’s discussion topics in the “Discussion” sections provoked fellow students’ well-informed inputs which indeed added value to the course.''

''I have learnt a great deal about Alexander the Great and his wider context. The format of the course exceeded my expectations. This must be just about the best online course I have taken yet. It is the sixth such course I have taken - all others with another 'similar' university''

''The tutor was excellent. The material selected was useful, his guidance helpful, and the weekly seminars added very much to the experience.''

"Maty is really interesting and led thoughtful discussions. The discussions were a big plus!"

tab2name:

Requirements

tab2html:

Entry requirements

This course is open to everyone, and you don’t need any previous knowledge or experience of the subject to attend.

Our short courses are designed especially for adult learners who want to advance their personal or professional development. They are taught by tutors who are expert in both their subjects and in teaching students of all ages and experiences.

Please note that all teaching is in English. You should have near-native command of the English language in order to get the maximum benefit from the course.

tab3name:

Fees & bursaries

tab3html:

Fees

The course fee includes access to the course on our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), personal feedback on your work from an expert tutor, a Certification of Participation (if you complete work and take part in discussions), and access to the class resources for two years after your course finishes.

VAT does not apply to course fees and there is no service charge (gratuities to domestic staff are left to your discretion).

Bursaries

The Cambridge University Press (CUP) Bursary Fund offers a bursary of 50% of the course fee to applicants who teach in a UK state school or state-funded further education institution, applying to study a day school, weekend course or online course.

tab1order:

tab2order:

tab3order:

Course Image version:

Study level ref:

Cosmology: the birth, the present, and the fate of our Universe

Subject ref:

Astronomy

Type ref:

Course code:

2324NOE001

Start date:

Monday, 4 September, 2023 - 01:00 to Sunday, 22 October, 2023 - 01:00

Apply by:

Monday, 4 September, 2023 - 01:00

Course tutor id:

3532

Dr Hardip Sanghera

Course ID:

30937

Tuition fee:

£305

Course programme:

Online Courses

Duration description:

7 Weeks

Non-accredited

Course photo:

City or Town:

Postcode:

Single capacity:

Double capacity:

Twin capacity:

Single usage:

Double usage:

Twin usage:

Maximum places:

Booked places:

Course cancelled:

false

course status ref:

booking destination ref:

Tutor role ref:

Purpose ref:

Study mode ref:

tab1name:

Overview

tab1html:

Aims of the course

To provide a full structure and understanding to your learning in this subject, through a framework that gives a clear and comprehensive understanding of the nature of the universe through a review of its origin, structure, and evolution from the Big Bang to today, and on into the future.
To provide an understanding of modern cosmology, the scientific study of the large-scale properties of the universe as a whole.
To provide a framework, in this present golden era of astronomy, within which you may better understand the science of astronomy encountered on multimedia, and to place into context the importance of new discoveries.
To help you take full advantage of online resources, such as YouTube astronomy channels, audiobooks, and astronomy books aimed at the general public.
To encourage you to attend astronomical observing opportunities and consider undertaking additional astronomy courses elsewhere.

Target audience

Non-astronomers who are captivated by the night sky and simply wonder 'why'?

Course content overview

Assuming no prior knowledge, as celestial explorers in today’s modern era of precision cosmology, and armed with full-spectrum vision and multi-messenger tools, we’ll explore the entire history of our Universe. From birth to death through its origin, evolution, and structure, with precise, reliable answers based on a spectacular series of recent breakthroughs in the last few decades.

Cosmology, an ambitious field that concerns itself with the entire universe, as well as all of time, is presently in the midst of a truly remarkable period of growth, particularly in the last 20 to 30 years. Precision is indeed possible, even on the grandest of scales, in which to nail down the various parameters, with an uncertainty in these values of just ~1% or so, that have worked in concert to determine the structure of the universe over its eons of existence, along with all the eons to come - long sought-after numbers that define the form and age of the universe.

A universe that is vast, pushing comprehension to its limits, but surprisingly one that bears witness to the fact that the consistency of our laws of nature throughout the universe means that it is understandable. This is a remarkable fact, for as Neil DeGrasse Tyson points out, the Universe is under no obligation to make sense to you, and yet the same laws of science apply everywhere. That is, the laws of physics are universal. This is why we can use spectroscopy and studies of the behaviour of distant stars and planets under gravity to derive information about them. Atoms in distant stars and galaxies obey the same quantum laws everywhere, allowing us to interpret information conveyed by their spectra. The motions of planets, stars, galaxies and galaxy clusters can be understood using the universal laws of gravity and motion, whether we use the version complied by Newton or Einstein.

By the end of this course, we will understand how cosmology, as a subject, which not that long ago carried a faint hint of disreputable scientific study, has moved from pure and often wild speculations, to the most solid of solid scientific foundations. A universe that we now comprehend was birthed from a microscopic dot of existence to the size of a watermelon through faster-than-light expansion for the merest fraction of a fraction of a second. But the universe, that we could understand and live in, then followed, born silently in the shortest of instances, in a torrent of energy in full blazing light. Then, following basic scientific laws within the first three minutes of its existence, proceeding the creation of subatomic particles, the light elements, hydrogen, and helium, were formed. From the creation of the first atoms, and the operation of the known forces of physics, the rest was history, as laid out beautifully in the LambdaCDM model, our current best picture of the origin and evolution of the Universe.

From dark matter to dark energy, cosmic inflation and the possibility of a multiverse, we will comprehend the full wealth of mysteries of this vast universe. An observable universe that was once considered finite and unbounded, as in the surface of a sphere by analogy with nothing outside of it, is now thought likely infinite and more or less flat in shape, with any possible curvature only visible in the metaverse beyond.

To comprehend this stunningly rich and coherent picture presented by modern observational cosmology, that is dominated by the Big Bang theory, requires getting to grips with the two essential languages for cosmology: General Relativity, Einstein’s theory of gravity; and the Standard Model of physics, which explains how the basic building blocks of matter interact, governed by four fundamental forces.

Armed with this knowledge we will address some of the biggest questions in modern astronomy, such as: What came before the Big Bang? How old is the universe? Will the universe end? and if so, how? In addition we will touch on some of its most fundamental mysteries which remain unsolved. So, if you truly wish to expand your horizons, and occasionally blow your mind in the process, then please join me for this one truly amazing journey

Schedule (this course is completed entirely online)

Orientation Week: 4-10 September 2023

Teaching Weeks: 11 September-15 October 2023

Feedback Week: 16-22 October 2023

Teaching Week 1: An inventory of the contents of the Universe

This week will cover:

Understanding the quantities, and types, of matter and radiation in the cosmos.
Understanding the concepts of dark matter and dark energy.
The uniformity and expansion of the cosmos.

Teaching Week 2: Modelling the Universe

This week will cover:

Understanding the cosmological assumptions and the Copernican principle that underly modern cosmological models.
Comparing the Steady State and Big Bang models, and the overwhelming evidence for the latter theory.
A brief over of all the ages of the universe.

Teaching Week 3: The very early Universe - in the beginning...

This week will cover:

Understanding the smallest scales we can observer, and consider what came before the hot Bing Bang, that is inflation.
Neutrino decoupling and particle annihilation to complete the first second of the universes existence.

Teaching Week 4: The early Universe - Creation of atoms to recombination

This week will cover:

Understanding the creation of the lightest elements via the process of nucleosynthesis.
Studying the Cosmic Microwave Background and its cosmological implications.
Considering the Dark Ages and the emergence large-scale structure.

Teaching Week 5: The Universe today, the far future, and its ultimate fate

This week cover:

Discussing the stelliferous era, beginning with the first stars and galaxies in the universe, and ending with the fate of the galaxies.
Considering the various degenerate, black hole and dark era's.
Concluding with a discussion on the fate of the universe, the consequences of dark energy and consideration of such concepts such as the multiverse.

Virtual Learning Environment

Certificate of participation

A Certificate of Participation will be awarded to participants who contribute constructively to weekly discussions and exercises/assignments for the duration of the course.

What our students say

"I can easily tell that Dr Hardip has a true passion for the mysteries of the universe around us and a great understanding of how we have progressed from wonder to a firm foundation of knowledge about many aspects of our universe I found his presentations thought provoking but not abstruse The you tube links were also generally good as supplements and often led me to other videos/ articles regarding related information I will try to continue pursuing this topic on my own although the feedback from Dr Hardip was very valuable."

"I found this to be a fabulous course and a wonderful final course to end the trilogy of courses on introductory astronomy. I left this course with an awe on the scale of our universe, a grounding in particle physics and its mysteries and a wonder as to whether this universe is just one of many in existence. I enjoyed the presentations, discussion threads and fantastic videos. All made possible by Hardip, an excellent and remarkably supportive tutor."

"I have enjoyed the course massively! I look forward to signing up for the other two courses in the series. We have all gained immensely from the extra effort that Hardip has put in to deliver the complex concepts of the course so concisely (especially General Relativity), being available in the forums, posting extra videos, and reviewing contributions. We leave with a solid introduction to cosmology, the evolutionary history of the universe, and current research, as well as a sense of profoundness."

"As with the previous two courses, this was superbly presented with a wealth of fascinating and thought-provoking subjects. It’s easy to say, but it genuinely is awe-inspiring to try to comprehend the distances, sizes and time spans involved with cosmology, from the infinitesimally tiny to the absolutely enormous. Once again, thank you Hardip for your well-constructed modules, your stimulating use of video to bring to life the various subjects, and the prompt and proactive way you have dealt with questions and issues as they’ve arisen."

tab2name:

Requirements

tab2html:

Entry requirements

This course is open to everyone, and you don’t need any previous knowledge or experience of the subject to attend.

Please note that all teaching is in English. You should have near-native command of the English language in order to get the maximum benefit from the course.

tab3name:

Fees & bursaries

tab3html:

Fees

VAT does not apply to course fees and there is no service charge (gratuities to domestic staff are left to your discretion).

Bursaries

tab1order:

tab2order:

tab3order:

Course Image version:

Study level ref:

Canonical Course ID:

31191

The law of England and Wales: an introduction

Subject ref:

Law and Criminology

Type ref:

Course code:

2324NOE004

Start date:

Monday, 4 September, 2023 - 01:00 to Sunday, 22 October, 2023 - 01:00

Apply by:

Monday, 4 September, 2023 - 01:00

Course tutor id:

9621

Rosalind English

Course ID:

30940

Tuition fee:

£305

Course programme:

Online Courses

Duration description:

7 Weeks

Non-accredited

Course photo:

City or Town:

Postcode:

Single capacity:

Double capacity:

Twin capacity:

Single usage:

Double usage:

Twin usage:

Maximum places:

Booked places:

Course cancelled:

false

course status ref:

booking destination ref:

Tutor role ref:

Purpose ref:

Study mode ref:

tab1name:

Overview

tab1html:

Aims of the course

To help those who have decided to commit themselves to a degree in law in this country;
To enlighten non-lawyers who need to know how the law works (journalists, social workers, etc.);
Anyone interested in how legal systems hold societies together.

Target audience

This course is open to anyone with an interest in the field: potential law students; anyone interested in the law, and people with an interest in how politicians have to engage with legal constraints.

Course content overview

Teaching week 1 - How law cements society

To enlighten non lawyers and those who have just embarked on a law course how the rule of law arose in medieval Britain to restrain the powers of the ruler in respect of the citizen. How private law was essential for the maintenance of justice between citizens, so that a wrong perpetrated by one citizen against another is compensated/punished, depending whether it is civil of criminal.

Learning outcomes

A thorough understanding about why and how the rule of law underlies the maintenance of a civil and peaceful society
The different types of law: legislation, common law and equity

Teaching week 2 - Criminal Law vs Civil Law

Learning outcomes

An understanding about the divide between a civil wrong, which usually leads to an award of compensation to the victim from the wrongdoer, and a criminal act, which does not necessarily result in a monetary award but some sort of punishment for the wrongdoer
Why this difference is so important: the distinction between negligence and intention to do harm

Teaching week 3 - Tools and resources

The use of materials in law is quite different from other disciplines. This unit is designed to teach students how to handle legal materials, rather than passing exams.

Learning outcomes

An appreciation of the importance of primary sources
Understanding why it is so important to find a relevant precedent in the law reports
To appreciate the significance of being able to read statutes and judicial decisions, over second hand textbook analyses
Understanding the structure of a law report and statute books

Teaching week 4 - Who's to judge?

To explain the structure of the English court system, and the dual professions of barristers and solicitors.

Learning outcomes

An understanding of the doctrine of precedent
The practical difference between levels of court: the High Court, the Crown Court, the Court of Appeal, the Court of Criminal Appeal, Magistrates’ Courts, County Courts etc.
An appreciation of the rulings of the various International Courts and their effect on domestic law

Teaching week 5 - Civil rights and wrongs

To acquaint participants with the range of civil actions available to the individual: breach of contract, tort, breach of trust. Civil rights enjoyed by the individual against the state enforceable by judicial review.

The post-Brexit future of European Union law (Brussels) and the rights set out in the European Convention of Human Rights (Strasbourg).

Learning outcomes

Understanding of the difference between actions between citizens (“private law”) and actions against the state (“public law”)
An appreciation of why there is so much controversy about the proposed repeal of the Human Rights Act 1998 under the present government

Schedule (this course is completed entirely online)

Orientation Week: 4-10 September 2023

Teaching Weeks: 11 September-15 October 2023

Feedback Week: 16-22 October 2023

Virtual Learning Environment

Certificate of participation

A Certificate of Participation will be awarded to participants who contribute constructively to weekly discussions and exercises/assignments for the duration of the course.

What our students say:

"Very well presented material and so available English, which is reflected not only as legal language, but also in comprehensibility for a person who is not fluent in English."

"The lectures that Rosalind English gave were excellent. The course developed week by week just as the legal system had evolved over the centuries. I have been through each lecture more than once. I did enjoy writing essays in response to the course work."

tab2name:

Requirements

tab2html:

Entry requirements

This course is open to everyone, and you don’t need any previous knowledge or experience of the subject to attend.

Please note that all teaching is in English. You should have near-native command of the English language in order to get the maximum benefit from the course.

tab3name:

Fees & bursaries

tab3html:

Fees

VAT does not apply to course fees and there is no service charge (gratuities to domestic staff are left to your discretion).

Bursaries

tab1order:

tab2order:

tab3order:

Course Image version:

Study level ref:

Canonical Course ID:

30975

Creative writing: an introduction to non-fiction nature writing

Short description:

One great way for you to really appreciate nature can be to put your experience down in words. It doesn't matter if you're not a wildlife expert - describing wildlife by writing about it means you can learn to see more, hear more, smell more, feel more. This course will introduce a range of techniques to help those who are keen to explore their back yard and beyond to make sense of nature. All you need to bring along is a love of wildlife and a willingness to explore.

Subject ref:

Creative Writing

Type ref:

Course code:

2324NOE006

Start date:

Monday, 4 September, 2023 - 01:00 to Sunday, 22 October, 2023 - 01:00

Apply by:

Monday, 4 September, 2023 - 01:00

Course tutor id:

8652

Derek William Niemann

Course ID:

30941

Tuition fee:

£395

Course programme:

Online Courses

Duration description:

7 Weeks

Non-accredited

Course photo:

City or Town:

Postcode:

Single capacity:

Double capacity:

Twin capacity:

Single usage:

Double usage:

Twin usage:

Maximum places:

Booked places:

Course cancelled:

false

course status ref:

booking destination ref:

Tutor role ref:

Purpose ref:

Study mode ref:

tab1name:

Course information

tab1html:

Aims of the course:

To explore a range of styles and techniques in writing about nature.
To develop participants’ skills in observing and capturing nature in words.
To increase participants’ awareness and appreciation of nature.

Course content overview:

This course offers students fresh perspectives on producing creative nature writing.
Students will learn how to sharpen their senses and heighten awareness and understanding of wildlife.
The course will show how nature writing can be ‘enlivened’, making it real to the reader

Welcome week (Week 0)

By studying this week students should have:

Become familiar with navigating around the VLE and from VLE to links and back

Tested their ability to access files and sorted out any problems with the help of the Helpdesk

Learnt how to look for, assess and reference internet resources

Used forums to introduce themselves to other students

Contributed to a discussion forum to introduce themselves to other students and discuss why they are interested in the course, what they hope to get out of their studies and also to respond to news sent out on behalf of the tutor

Week 1: What's the story?

By studying this week students should have:

An understanding of the multiple possibilities in constructing narratives from observations of nature

Week 2: A feel for nature - how to harness your senses

By studying this week students should have:

Used their senses to improve their descriptive powers, especially using the under-developed senses of touch and smell

Week 3: Facts are our friends

By studying this week students should have:

An understanding that prior knowledge can help them with selection of subjects

An ability to use facts to enhance their perception of what they have observed

An understanding that background knowledge can contextualise natural history writing

Week 4: Landscapes, places and details: a question of scale

By studying this week students should have:

Learned how to describe places from the very big to the very small

Examined the descriptive language that goes into building images of locations

Experimented with portraying such places

Week 5: Nature and the self

By studying this week students should have:

Understood how writers can indicate their feelings and state of mind through nature

Discovered how the narrator can - through humour and emotion - gain the reader's empathy

Weigh up the pros and cons of projecting the self into nature writing

Week 6: What next?

Assessment of student learning

Assessment of student satisfaction

Encouragement of further study

Schedule (this course is completed entirely online):

Orientation Week: 4-10 September 2023

Teaching Weeks: 11 September-15 October 2023

Feedback Week: 16-22 October 2023

A Certificate of Participation will be awarded to participants who contribute constructively to weekly discussions and exercises/assignments for the duration of the course.

Course textbook/required sources

No textbook is required reading but students would be advised to use the great outdoors as a source of inspiration, ideas and as a writing laboratory.
Students should read widely from nature writing – both historic and contemporary. A suggested reading list will be provided.

What our students say

“It was impressive how thoroughly the content could be fit into six short weeks! I learned quite a bit in that period of time, and I hope to continue with more courses.”

"One greatly appreciates a tutor that is highly sensitive and with high academic understanding of his field, beyond merely a knowledge of books. His inclusion of a section on Nature and the Self is a noteworthy tour de force which opened up many new avenues for me and, by comments made by other participants, for others."

“Derek’s very fast feedback on our exercises was much-appreciated (and spot-on). His personality also came across in his comments and the respect and care he showed for the students and their work was evident.”

tab2name:

Entry requirements

tab2html:

This course is open to everyone, and you don’t need any previous knowledge or experience of the subject to attend.

Our online courses are designed especially for adult learners who want to advance their personal or professional development. They are taught by tutors who are expert in both their subjects and in teaching students of all ages and experiences.

Given the nature of creative writing, it is important that students' use of English is sufficiently fluent to be able to understand in English nuances of meaning and have a familiarity with the structure and grammar of English. Please note that all teaching is in English. You should have near-native command of the English language in order to get the maximum benefit from the course.

For information on bursaries for this course, please see http://www.ice.cam.ac.uk/info/bursaries

tab1order:

tab2order:

Course Image version:

Study level ref:

Gloriana: the life and times of Elizabeth I, 1533-1603

Short description:

She was called Gloriana. The Virgin Queen. Elizabeth created a propaganda image of herself embodying English victories and English power which has endured into the 21st century. But what was the reality of her reign? This course will seek to explore the life and times of this extraordinary woman and, in the process, uncover something of the truth behind the mask. We will explore such topics as her troubled and often dangerous youth, her policies as Queen where she was a woman in a man's world, as well as looking at some of the famous events and personalities of her reign.

Subject ref:

Type ref:

Course code:

2324NOE003

Start date:

Monday, 4 September, 2023 - 01:00 to Sunday, 22 October, 2023 - 01:00

Apply by:

Monday, 4 September, 2023 - 01:00

Course tutor id:

305

Dr Andrew Charles Lacey

Course ID:

30939

Tuition fee:

£305

Course programme:

Online Courses

Duration description:

7 Weeks

Non-accredited

Course photo:

City or Town:

Postcode:

Single capacity:

Double capacity:

Twin capacity:

Single usage:

Double usage:

Twin usage:

Maximum places:

Booked places:

Course cancelled:

false

course status ref:

booking destination ref:

Tutor role ref:

Purpose ref:

Study mode ref:

tab1name:

Course information

tab1html:

Aims of the course:

To provide a narrative of the life and times of Elizabeth I
To introduce the key personalities and events in her life and reign and their significance
To consider some aspects of the social and cultural life of Elizabethan England

Course content overview:

This course aims to provide a comprehensive introduction to the general narrative of the period 1533-1603, focusing upon the life and reign of Elizabeth I. The course will examine the personalities involved, religious, social and cultural history, the war with Spain and the Armada as well as discussing some of the long-term consequences of the reign.

Schedule (this course is completed entirely online):

Orientation Week: 4-10 September 2023

Teaching Weeks: 11 September-15 October 2023

Feedback Week: 16-22 October 2023

Week 0 - Preparing to study this course

Purpose/Learning outcomes

By studying this week the students should have:

•Become familiar with navigating around the VLE and from VLE to links and back

•Tested their ability to access files and the web conferencing software and sorted out any problems with the help of the eLearning team

•Learnt how to look for, assess and reference internet resources

•Used Quickmail to introduce themselves to other students

•Contributed to a discussion forum to introduce themselves to other students and discuss why they are interested in the course, what they hope to get out of their studies and also to respond to news items sent out on behalf of tutor

Week 1 - Elizabeth: Princess, bastard and Queen, 1533 - 1558

Purpose

To study the life of Elizabeth Tudor from her birth in 1533 to her accession in 1558, this will include:

-The exploration of her changing status from being heir presumptive, to being declared illegitimate after the fall of her mother, Anne Boleyn.

-Elizabeth’s education

-Elizabeth’s religion

-Her relationship with her half-brother Edward VI

-Her relationship with her half-sister Mary and the dangers she faced as a focus for opposition to Mary

-Her accession to the throne

Learning outcomes

By studying this week the students should have:

•Understood something of Elizabeth’s upbringing and its affects upon her personality

•How she survived the reign of her half-sister Mary

•The manner of her accession

Week 2 - A woman in a man’s world – Elizabeth and her rule

Purpose

This week will concentrate on how Elizabeth established and maintained her rule – as a woman in a man’s world – for over forty years. We will look at her relationships with her leading ministers, her Parliaments and the Church. We will consider why she never married and how she used her sex to win the allegiance of her leading male subjects, an important aspect of this being the propagation of the cult of ‘Gloriana’ and the strict control of the Queen’s image.

Learning outcomes

By studying this week the students should have:

•Considered how Elizabeth worked with her ministers, Parliaments and leading subjects

•Considered why Elizabeth never married

•Some understanding of the significance of the ‘cult’ of the Queen

•Some understanding of the significance of such figures as Burghley, Walsingham, Leicester, etc.

Week 3 - The Elizabethan Religious Settlement – Anglicans, Puritans and Catholics

Purpose

When Elizabeth came to the throne England had experienced over 30 years of religious upheaval. Elizabeth rejected the Catholicism of her predecessor, Mary, and reasserted the Royal Supremacy. However, she also aimed to defuse religious tensions by creating an Anglican Church wide enough to comprehend most of her subjects. We will look at the successes and failures of this policy, in particular, the threats to it from, on the one hand, the Puritans and on the other, the Roman Catholics.

Learning outcomes

By studying this week the students should have:

•Some understanding of Elizabeth’s religious views

•Some understanding of the Elizabethan Religious Settlement and the Anglican compromise

•Some insight into the views and actions of those who contested the religious settlement – Puritans and Roman Catholics

•Understood the link between religious allegiance in England and politics abroad.

Week 4 - Religion, Spain and the Armada

Purpose

From 1570, when Elizabeth was excommunicated by the Pope, English Catholics were increasingly seen as a treasonous fifth column within the realm, working for the Papacy and the great Catholic power of Spain. This week will explore the threat to Elizabeth’s rule and person posed by Catholic powers abroad and the danger of Catholic plots and rebellion at home. We will consider the place of Mary, Queen of Scots, the significance of the Jesuit missions, and whether English Catholics were ever a real threat to the regime and the events surrounding the Spanish Armada of 1588.

Learning outcomes

By studying this week the students should have:

•Some understanding of the place of English Catholics under Elizabeth and the significance of the Jesuit missions

•Some understanding of the life and significance of Mary, Queen of Scots

•Understood the narrative of the Spanish Armada

•Considered the place of the ‘sea dogs’ – Drake, Raleigh, Frobisher, etc. The contest with Spain before 1588 and its significance for the birth of English seapower and empire.

Week 5 - The Elizabethan Age

Purpose

In art, architecture and literature the Elizabethan Age is one of the most significant in English history. This week will concentrate on looking at something of that legacy, from the ‘prodigy’ houses of the aristocracy to the early plays of William Shakespeare. We will end the course with a consideration of the last years of Elizabeth and the accession of James VI of Scotland as James I of England in 1603.

Learning outcomes

By studying this week the students should have:

•Some appreciation of developments in the arts, architecture and literature

•Some understanding of why this period should have been so culturally fertile

•Some insight into the way people lived and worked

•Some insight into the ‘mental world’ of the age

•Some understanding of why the Stuarts succeeded the Tudors in 1603

•Hosting information content, dealing with student queries

Week 6 - What Next?

Purpose

•Assessment of student learning

•Assessment of student satisfaction

•Encouragement of further study

Certificate of Participation

A Certificate of Participation will be awarded to participants who contribute constructively to weekly discussions and exercises/assignments for the duration of the course.

What our students say:

"It was comprehensive, clearly laid out and enhanced by both visual sources and further reading lists."

"The course covered the subject well with a good variety of material"

"Andrew is clearly knowledgeable and approachable. I enjoyed what he presented and the way he brought art, film etc into play alongside the written word."

"Responsive, encouraging and thoroughly knowledgeable."

tab2name:

Entry requirements

tab2html:

This course is open to everyone, and you don’t need any previous knowledge or experience of the subject to attend.

For information on bursaries for this course, please see http://www.ice.cam.ac.uk/info/bursaries

tab3name:

Fees & bursaries

tab3html:

Fees

The course fee includes access to the course on our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), personal feedback on your work from an expert tutor, a Certification of Participation (if you complete work and take part in discussions for the duration of the course), and access to the class resources for two years after your course finishes.

VAT does not apply to course fees and there is no service charge (gratuities to domestic staff are left to your discretion).

Bursaries

tab1order:

tab2order:

tab3order:

Course Image version:

Study level ref:

Canonical Course ID:

31187

The Viking age

Subject ref:

Archaeology

Type ref:

Course code:

2324NOE002

Start date:

Monday, 4 September, 2023 - 01:00 to Sunday, 22 October, 2023 - 01:00

Apply by:

Monday, 4 September, 2023 - 01:00

Course ID:

30938

Tuition fee:

£305

Course programme:

Online Courses

Duration description:

7 Weeks

Non-accredited

Course photo:

City or Town:

Postcode:

Single capacity:

Double capacity:

Twin capacity:

Single usage:

Double usage:

Twin usage:

Maximum places:

Booked places:

Course cancelled:

false

course status ref:

CANCELLED

booking destination ref:

Purpose ref:

Study mode ref:

tab1name:

Overview

tab1html:

Aims of the course

To introduce participants to the archaeology and heritage of the Viking Age
To encourage participants to think critically and creatively about Viking Age archaeology and heritage
To enable participants to work collaboratively with their peers to further their understanding and presentation of this period

Course content overview

Who were the Vikings? What legacies and traces have they left behind? How and why did they fare beyond Scandinavia? How are they perceived and presented today? Dr. Britt Baillie and scholars from the Roskilde Viking Ship Museum will guide students through the archaeological remains from and heritage sites that interpret this period. The course will address the subject through a series of thematic lectures on Viking society, ships, trade, religion, art and burial. It will explore both their activities ‘at home’ in Scandinavia as well as abroad (in the British Isles, the New World, Russia, etc).

Learning outcomes

As a result of the course, within the constraints of the time available, participants should be able to:

Discuss Viking Age archaeological data (such as artefacts, site plans, and distributions maps, etc)
Evaluate the relative merit and limitations of the archaeological and historical evidence for this period and the difficulties integrating them
Gain knowledge of the variability of the archaeological record in different parts of the Viking World

Schedule (this course is completed entirely online)

Orientation Week: 4-10 September 2023

Teaching Weeks: 11 September-15 October 2023

Feedback Week: 16-22 October 2023

Teaching Week 1 - The Dawn of the Viking Age

Who were the Vikings? Why did they risk life and limb to travel trade, raid, and settle in far flung places? The first week will explore what lead to the early Viking raids and subsequent journeys through Europe to Africa, North America, and the Middle East.

What was everyday life like in the Viking homelands? What were the belief systems that underpinned the Viking world? Who held power and how did encounters with others impact life ‘back home’? We will also examine how archaeology shines light on how Viking Age society was structured in Scandinavia in terms of class, gender, and religion.

Learning outcomes

By studying this week participants should have:

An overview of the Viking Age including its chronological duration and geographical expanse.
An awareness of the material evidence which indicates gender and social strata in Viking society.

Teaching Week 2 - Viking-Age ships and seafaring

This week will probe how the maritime technology of the Vikings defined their success in war and peace. The boat and ship finds of the Viking Age demonstrate that many different types and sizes of watercrafts were built. At the beginning of the Viking Age we see the transformation of the Iron Age rowing vessel into a proper sailing ship, and later also a specialisation in terms of design. The ship was a symbol of status and power and had an important role in the cosmology of the era. But even more important, the ship was the precondition for the Scandinavians to expand their maritime activities, resulting in a growing economy consisting of complex trading networks, piracy, conquests and bold voyages into the unknown.

We will also examine how the process of reconstructing Viking ships has revealed how raw materials utilised for building the ships were carefully selected, and to achieve the desired qualities and properties in the raw materials, woodland management was conducted. Many different crafts were involved in building a ship and the craftsmanship conducted is truly astonishing.

Learning outcomes

By studying this week participants should have:

A basic understanding of clinker vessels; an overview of the main Viking ship forms and functions;
An appreciation of the importance of contemporary Viking ship reconstructions.

Teaching Week 3 - Slaves and silver: raiding and trading in the Viking Age

Norse merchants stimulated the development of long-distance, regional and local trade and exchange networks. How were the Vikings able to bring so much silver to the North? This week we will look at how hoards, and changes in towns shine a light on the raiding and trading of the Vikings.

Learning outcomes

By studying this week participants should have:

An understanding of the variety of functions performed by hoards and of the changing nature of emporia in the Viking era.

Teaching Week 4 - Ladby: a Danish ship grave from the Viking Age

This week explores ship burials an iconic feature of the Viking era by focusing on the case-study of Ladby. Why was the ship burial located here? What does its rich collection of grave goods tell us about the person who was buried in it? Why was it desecrated?

The ship-grave from Ladby is one of a few known big Scandinavian ship-graves from the 9th – 10th centuries. Around 900 AD a small war-ship was placed in a trench on the highest point in a burial-ground from the Late Iron Age and the Viking Age. The ship was used as the last resting place for an important person indicated by the splendour of the grave equipment. The skeletons of 11 horses and 3-4 dogs and more than 600 fragments of riding gear, tableware, a gaming board, weapons, artwork, gold adorned textile and objects probably connected to power and a high social status. The ship-grave from Ladby displays a wide geographical framework, which is demonstrated both by the form of the grave and by the provenance of several objects among the grave goods.

Learning outcomes

By studying this week participants should have:

An understanding of how Viking Age grave goods can be analysed and interpreted.

Teaching Week 5 - The dusk of the Viking Age and its long shadow

This week we will probe the tail end of the Viking Age exploring the birth of the Scandinavian kingdoms, the impacts of Christianity on Viking society, and the legacy of the Normans.

Viking heritage consists of museums, designated sites, theme parks, reconstructions, fairs, routes and events. We will also examines how notions of authenticity and commodification are constructed through the staging of types of Viking heritage.

Learning outcomes

By studying this week participants should have:

An overview of the key shifts which changed Scandinavian society at the end of what is regarded as the Viking Age
An understanding of how Viking –Era archaeological remains are transformed into heritage and how questions of authenticity and commodification impact that journey.

Virtual Learning Environment

Certificate of participation

A Certificate of Participation will be awarded to participants who contribute constructively to weekly discussions and exercises/assignments for the duration of the course.

What our students say

'Thank you for a wonderful chance to view your work. I enjoyed the online live seminars, which gave me a chance to see and hear the tutor and other classmates.'

'Above and beyond, I have learned much more than I expected to.'

'The course covered a diversity of Viking history, archaeology, culture, and technology. It was a brilliant mix of on-site recorded videos, readings, relevant museum websites, and priceless live meetings. My knowledge of Vikings increased 100%.'

tab2name:

Requirements

tab2html:

Entry requirements

This course is open to everyone, and you don’t need any previous knowledge or experience of the subject to attend.

Please note that all teaching is in English. You should have near-native command of the English language in order to get the maximum benefit from the course.

tab3name:

Fees & bursaries

tab3html:

Fees

VAT does not apply to course fees and there is no service charge (gratuities to domestic staff are left to your discretion).

Bursaries

tab1order:

tab2order:

tab3order:

Course Image version:

Study level ref:

Canonical Course ID:

31188

Being Human: an introduction to Social Anthropology

Subject ref:

Sociology

Type ref:

Course code:

2223NOE115

Start date:

Monday, 10 July, 2023 - 01:00 to Sunday, 27 August, 2023 - 01:00

Apply by:

Monday, 10 July, 2023 - 01:00

Course ID:

30935

Tuition fee:

£295

Course programme:

Online Courses

Duration description:

7 Weeks

Non-accredited

Course photo:

City or Town:

Postcode:

Single capacity:

Double capacity:

Twin capacity:

Single usage:

Double usage:

Twin usage:

Maximum places:

Booked places:

Course cancelled:

false

course status ref:

booking destination ref:

Purpose ref:

Study mode ref:

tab1name:

Overview

tab1html:

Aims of the course

To provide participants with an introduction to key concepts in social anthropology
To stimulate an appreciation of variability in human social organisation
To inspire understanding of how different cultural groups respond to global issues

Course content overview

This is a course for anyone interested in exploring the complex and fascinating ways in which different human societies organise themselves and relate and respond to one another and the world around them. We begin by discovering how social anthropology contributes to some of the big questions: What does it mean to be human? What unites us? What divides us? The second portion of the course works through a series of examples to understand how different human societies understand and express concepts of family and kinship, governance and political organisation, resource management and connection to place. The course will show how an understanding of different cultures can inspire and guide responses to global crises that stand to impact all of humanity.

Schedule (this course is completed entirely online)

Orientation Week: 10-16 July 2023

Teaching Weeks: 17 July-20 August 2023

Feedback Week: 21-27 August 2023

Teaching Week 1 - Let's eat! The social anthropology of being human

Social anthropology is the comparative study of human social organisation and cultural practice. In this first teaching week we will explore what it means to be human by exploring something all humans have in common – eating! We will explore how different societies around the world conceive of food, cooking, and eating as a gateway to understanding what social anthropologists do, but more importantly as a way to better understand what it means to be human.

Learning outcomes:

A basic understanding of the key concepts underlying social anthropology as a discipline
An introduction to how food culture contributes to an understanding of the variety of human cultures

Teaching Week 2 - The ties that bind: exploring kinship and family

In this second teaching week we will investigate the complex web of social relationships that define “kinship”. We will travel the world (virtually!) to explore the amazing ways in which human societies define, perpetuate, and transform what it means to be “related”. How do different societies determine who is and is not related? What social means do different cultures use to construct a family? What is the role of family in different cultures?

Learning outcomes:

An appreciation of the varied ways in which different societies define kinship and family
An understanding of the complex social relationships that define both kinship and family
The ability to reflect on how definitions of family and kinship impact broader society

Teaching Week 3 - Who's the boss?: governance, law, and tradition

Human societies govern in an astonishing variety of ways. The means through which governance is put into practice (e.g. through political structure, legal systems, cultural traditions etc.) is equally varied. This teaching week we will explore some of the complex systems of governance that exist in contemporary societies from culturally distinct parts of the world. We will look specifically at how culturally-grounded legal and governance systems challenge fundamental assumptions about who should be granted legal personhood.

Learning outcomes:

An appreciation of variation in systems of governance
An introduction to distinct systems of governance that challenge assumptions about what constitutes “good governance”

Teaching Week 4 - Knowing nature: exploring traditional ecological knowledge

Interest in how human societies relate to the world around them, and in particular manage the resources upon which they depend, is a major focus of current social anthropology. In this teaching week we will explore the idea of “traditional ecological knowledge” or TEK. Using the lens of TEK we will investigate how different societies conceive of the natural world, and how those conceptions inform the use and management of natural resources.

Learning outcomes:

An introductory understanding of what constitutes TEK, how it is formulated and sustained over time
A critical understanding of the implications of using TEK in service of contemporary national and global resource management agendas

Teaching Week 5 - We bend but we don't break: resilience in the Anthropocene

This final teaching week will explore what it means to be human in the “Anthropocene” or the “age of the human”. We will investigate how social anthropologists work to understand how different societies respond to unanticipated change, what we can learn from those responses, and how those lessons might inform future actions to address global social and environmental change. We will explore these ideas through the lenses of climate change and “resilience”.

Learning outcomes:

An introductory understanding of the Anthropocene
A basic understanding of what it means to be “resilient”

Virtual Learning Environment

Certificate of participation

A Certificate of Participation will be awarded to participants who contribute constructively to weekly discussions and exercises/assignments for the duration of the course.

What our students have said:

"even though I was familiar with many topics, concepts and ideas we reviewed in the class, I learned new ways to understand and look at the world. I think the course did more than meet my expectations. Tanja did such a great job exceeding my expectations."

"Tanja was extremely clear and informative. She was instrumental in the successful development of the course. Her feedback, guidance and, instruction were crucial for my understanding of the different concepts and ideas we reviewed in this course. I really enjoyed her videos and how clear she was at explaining and describing the relevance of the topics and themes we reviewed in class. Her expertise and professionalism kept me and I believe that others students as well engaged and motivated to learn and participate."

tab2name:

Requirements

tab2html:

Entry requirements

This course is open to everyone, and you don’t need any previous knowledge or experience of the subject to attend.

Please note that all teaching is in English. You should have near-native command of the English language in order to get the maximum benefit from the course.

tab3name:

Fees & bursaries

tab3html:

Fees

VAT does not apply to course fees and there is no service charge (gratuities to domestic staff are left to your discretion).

Bursaries

tab1order:

tab2order:

tab3order:

Course Image version:

Study level ref:

Elizabeth Gyllian Speller

Canonical Course ID:

31131

Yes, you can write: an introduction to creative writing

Short description:

Are you itching to write the novel in your head? Do you hope to write a family story that remains untold? Or do you just want to delight in writing for writing’s sake, putting words down that will grip the reader, and give you huge pleasure and satisfaction? No prior experience is needed for this course, given by two experienced authors and tutors. It will focus primarily on telling stories in fiction or non-fiction (including life writing), and will also touch on poetry and writing for performance.

Subject ref:

Creative Writing

Type ref:

Weekend Courses

Course code:

2223NRX046

Start date:

Friday, 16 June, 2023 - 01:00 to Sunday, 18 June, 2023 - 01:00

Apply by:

Monday, 5 June, 2023 - 01:00

Course tutor id:

8652

7562

Derek William Niemann

Course ID:

30932

Tuition fee:

£355

Course programme:

Weekend Courses

Duration description:

1 Weekend

Non-accredited

Course photo:

Address lines:

University of Cambridge

City or Town:

Cambridge

County:

Cambridgeshire

Postcode:

CB23 8AQ

Venue:

Institute of Continuing Education

Country:

United Kingdom

Single capacity:

Double capacity:

Twin capacity:

Single usage:

Double usage:

Twin usage:

Maximum places:

Booked places:

Course cancelled:

false

course status ref:

booking destination ref:

Tutor role ref:

Purpose ref:

Study mode ref:

tab1name:

Overview

tab1html:

Course delivery and schedule

The course includes 7 x 90-minute sessions with plenty of opportunity for further conversations and networking during breaks and mealtimes.

Aims of the course

Help build a positive, joy-filled, fear-free approach to creative writing within a mutually supportive environment
Enable you to gain a broad understanding of the various techniques that lift dull prose off the page and make it zing
Give you the confidence through stimulating practical exercises to stretch and develop your writing talents, both during the course and beyond

Content

The course sets out to cover some of the basic ingredients that make up creative writing in both fiction and non-fiction. These include description, character, plot structure and narrative voice. You will be encouraged to share your work on the understanding that these are rough drafts and not polished perfection; and everyone can learn from everyone else. Though the emphasis will be on practical exercises and sheer enjoyment of writing, we’ll also scrutinise and critique different types of published writing, gaining insights from an understanding of their strengths and weaknesses.

Presentation of the course

The course will involve a range of practical exercises, study of both fiction and non-fiction, and a good deal of class discussion.

Course programme

Friday

Please plan to arrive between 16:30 and 18:30. You can meet other course participants in the Terrace Bar which opens at 18:15. Tea and coffee making facilities are available in the study bedrooms.

19:00	Dinner
20:30 – 22:00	From a potato to an octopus. A worry-free guide to creative writing
22:00	Terrace Bar open for informal discussion

Saturday

07:30	Breakfast (for residents only)
09:00 – 10:30	Whose story is it anyway? – finding your writing voice
10:30	Coffee
11:00 – 12:30	Building your world – mastering descriptive skills
12:30	Free time
13:00	Lunch
14:00	Free time
16:00	Tea
16:30 - 18:00	Plotting the storyline – how to develop your narrative
18:00 – 18:30	Free time
18:30	Dinner
20:00 – 21:30	Divertimento – an evening exercise playing with words
21:30	Terrace Bar open for informal discussion

Sunday

07:30	Breakfast (for residents only)
09:00 – 10:30	Getting into character – how to handle personality
10:30	Coffee
11:00 – 12:30	Nuts and bolts – a round-up session in which we look at techniques for improving style and the all-important editing process.
12:45	Lunch
	Departure after lunch

Course materials

Course materials include the course syllabus, detailed timetable, reading list and tutor biography. Once these materials are available, you can download them from the Documents section below.

We will also email these to you before your course starts. Please check your spam folder if you have not received them.

Please note that our weekend courses are non-credit bearing and there is no formal assessment.

tab2name:

Venue, accommodation and fees

tab2html:

About Madingley Hall

This weekend course takes place at Madingley Hall, home to the University of Cambridge Institute of Continuing Education. Built in the 16th century, Madingley Hall is a Grade 1 listed building, and is set in eight acres of landscaped gardens designed in the 18th century by ‘Capability’ Brown. Madingley is just four miles from the centre of Cambridge, and only 60 minutes from London, with excellent links to London airports.

As a student you will enjoy award-winning cuisine in our elegant Dining Hall and first-rate facilities in an atmospheric and inspiring setting. You can choose to stay at the Hall in comfortable en suite accommodation, or attend as a non-resident.

Accommodation

Accommodation for residential students is provided in single, double or twin study bedrooms, with attractive views over the woods, gardens and courtyard.

Each room has internet access, a digital television and a direct-dial telephone, as well as tea- and coffee-making facilities and a safe for valuables. Rooms are all en suite and centrally heated.

A lift gives access to two bedrooms adapted for wheelchair users, and all areas on the ground floor can be reached once inside the building. If you would like us to make any special provision for your stay, please let us know when booking and we will be happy to discuss your requirements.

Fees

Residential fees cover tuition, accommodation and meals from Friday dinner to Sunday lunch (a total of two breakfasts, two lunches, and two evening meals), as well as morning coffee and afternoon tea during teaching hours.

Non-residential fees include tuition, lunches, evening meals, morning coffee and afternoon tea during teaching hours.

Please note: accommodation spaces are limited and priority is given to course attendees. Non-residential places are available for those who live locally or who prefer to stay elsewhere. If space permits, non-student guests may accompany a course attendee for the weekend, paying the rate below for accommodation and meals.

Tuition only (includes lunches, dinners, tea and coffee)	£355
Bed and breakfast per night for a single room	£70
Bed and breakfast per night for a shared double or twin room, per person *	£60
Meal and room costs for guests who are ‘non-students’ sharing a room with a student attending a weekend course	£245

* where rooms are shared by course attendees, ie, where a partner or family member is also enrolled on a weekend course.

Extra nights

We may be able to offer accommodation after your course should you wish to extend your stay. Please contact us if you would like to book an additional night.

Dietary requirements

If you have any specific dietary requirements or allergies please indicate these when booking.

Bursaries for teachers

Our State School Teacher bursary offers 50% off tuition fees for any teacher with Qualified Teacher Status working in a UK state-funded school or further education institution.

You will be asked to enter the name and contact details of the school when booking.

Getting to Madingley Hall

The Institute of Continuing Education is based at Madingley Hall (CB23 8AQ) in the village of Madingley, four miles west of Cambridge. It is easily accessible from the M11, A14 and A428. Other gateways include Cambridge Main Railway Station and London airports. 

If you are arriving in Cambridge by train you can take a taxi to Madingley Hall. Please contact Reception to book a taxi for your return journey.

Parking

Free on-site car parking is available and we have a small number of spaces close to the Hall entrance for Blue Badge holders.

tab3name:

Requirements

tab3html:

Who can book?

Our weekend courses are open to participants over the age of 18 and courses are taught at approximately first-year undergraduate level. No academic qualifications are required and most courses are suitable for students who are new to the subject. Please ensure that you complete any required reading listed in your course materials before the course starts to enable you to fully participate and get the maximum enjoyment out of your course.

English language requirements

If your first language is not English, you will need to satisfy yourself that you have the required near-native command of the language to get the maximum benefit from studying with us.

Accessibility for students with support requirements

We make every effort both to anticipate and to make reasonable adjustments to meet the needs of students with support requirements including those with unseen disabilities, including mental health conditions, and specific learning difficulties, such as dyslexia.

Please ensure you let us know about any support requirements when booking so that we can offer you the support and advice you require before your course starts, enabling a smooth transition to your studies.

If when booking you indicate that you require additional support, you will be sent a Student Additional Requirements Form (SARF) to complete. The form asks for further details about your requirements and support needs, and requests that you submit supporting evidence.

If you have any particular requirements or queries please contact the Disability Liaison team at da@ice.cam.ac.uk

tab4name:

How to book

tab4html:

Booking a course

To book a weekend course please click the Book Now button at the top of the course page. You will be taken to our secure bookings portal where you can set up an account using your email address, and pay for your course by credit or debit card.

Payments

Payment can be made by credit/debit card using our secure online booking system, unless otherwise arranged. You can either pay in full at the time of booking, or pay a 15% registration fee as a deposit; the balance will automatically be taken two weeks before the start of the course.

Booking deadlines

Bookings close 11 days before the start of the course. If your preferred course is full at the time of booking you can add yourself to a waiting list. You will be notified, by email, if a place becomes available. We recommend that you book early to avoid missing out.

Booking terms and conditions

Before booking your course, please ensure that you have read and understood our Booking terms and conditions.

tab1order:

tab2order:

tab3order:

tab4order:

Course Image version:

Study level ref:

Creative writing: an introduction to writing for children

Short description:

Children are a wonderful audience for stories. They are open to new ideas, and honest in their appreciation or criticism of them. If a child loves a book they will want it over and over again until it becomes almost a part of them, remembered forever. Children's books come in a range of formats for different ages and stages. In some, text shares the stage with pictures, in some text stands alone. It's a complex world, but a fascinating one. This course introduces stories for babies, for early readers, for middle grade and young adults, and challenges participants to have a go at them all, to discuss and share and develop their own ideas.

Subject ref:

Creative Writing

Type ref:

Course code:

2223NOE114

Start date:

Monday, 10 July, 2023 - 01:00 to Sunday, 27 August, 2023 - 01:00

Apply by:

Monday, 10 July, 2023 - 01:00

Course tutor id:

8312

Dr Pippa Goodhart

Course ID:

30931

Tuition fee:

£395

Course programme:

Online Courses

Duration description:

7 Weeks

Non-accredited

Course photo:

City or Town:

Postcode:

Single capacity:

Double capacity:

Twin capacity:

Single usage:

Double usage:

Twin usage:

Maximum places:

Booked places:

Course cancelled:

false

course status ref:

booking destination ref:

Tutor role ref:

Purpose ref:

Study mode ref:

tab1name:

Course information

tab1html:

Aims of the course:

To explore the range of fiction and book formats for different ages and stages of childhood.
To show how to shape and write stories, sometimes to work with illustration.
To allow participants to develop an understanding of the market, and how to pursue publication.

Learning outcomes

As a result of the course, within the constraints of the time available, students should be able to:

understand what a story is, and how it works;
appreciate why different stories and styles suit different stages of childhood and book format;
make an informed attempt at writing for children of different ages;
understand what is involved in getting a story published.

Course content overview:

This course will consider children of different ages and stages, and the books suited to them.
An understanding of story will be developed, considering character, plot and writing voice appropriate to the young audience and readership.
Information will be given in targeting different potential publication openings.

Schedule (this course is completed entirely online):

Orientation Week: 10-16 July 2023

By studying this week the students should have:

become familiar with navigating around the VLE and from VLE to links and back;
tested their ability to access files and the web conferencing software and sorted out any problems with the help of the eLearning Helpdesk;
learnt how to look for, assess and reference internet resources;
contributed to a discussion forum to introduce themselves to other students and discuss why they are interested in the course, what they hope to get out of their studies and also to respond to News item sent out by tutor.

Teaching Weeks: 17 July-20 August 2023

Week 1 What’s the story?

Purpose: To explore what a story is and how to shape one. By studying this week the students should have an understanding of the necessary structure of story.

Week 2 Character and plot

Purpose: To show how character and plot are intertwined to achieve story. By studying this week the students should have:

an understanding of how character powers plot;
the tools with which to create character through words;
the experience of writing a story opening that establishes character and sets a plot in motion.

Week 3 Voice

Purpose: To explore how different writing treatments can achieve different effects. Narrative voice, first person, use of dialogue, letters and diary entries. By studying this week the students should have:

an understanding of different writing styles, and the effect those different styles can create;
experience in trying some of those different styles;
experience in assessing those styles, when written by others.

Week 4 Words in partnership with illustration and design

Purpose: To show how pictures showing story can work together with words telling or animating a story. To demonstrate how book design can present story to dramatic effect. By studying this week the students should have:

an appreciation of how words and pictures can work together to communicate story in picture book form;
an experience of writing with illustration in mind.

Week 5 Aiming for publication

Purpose: To introduce the complex world of children’s book publication, highlight potential openings, and teach how best to approach publication. By studying this week the students should have:

an understanding of the markets for children’s books;
an understanding of the different requirements from publishers aiming different formats of books for different ages of children and different markets;
knowledge about how best to approach publication

Feedback Week: 21-27 August 2023

A Certificate of Participation will be awarded to participants who contribute constructively to weekly discussions and exercises/assignments for the duration of the course.

What our students say

"Pippa's weekly feedback was excellent. So thorough and considered. She was very honest and constructive which is much appreciated. Her insider knowledge is so interesting and useful. I think most of all she seemed genuinely invested in our development."

“The course content exceeded my expectations. It managed to cover a lot of detail about how to write and what makes a good story, as well as more practical matters.”

“I enjoyed the challenges and they were pitched at the beginner level which suited me well."

“Every week I found myself challenged and encouraged with insightful information, exercises and feedback.”

tab2name:

Entry requirements

tab2html:

This course is open to everyone, and you don’t need any previous knowledge or experience of the subject to attend.

For information on bursaries for this course, please see http://www.ice.cam.ac.uk/info/bursaries

tab1order:

tab2order:

Course Image version:

Study level ref:

Canonical Course ID:

30969

Saving planet ocean: an introduction to marine conservation

Short description:

Oceans cover seven-tenths of the planet. They contain extraordinary wildlife, are vital for human health, food and livelihoods, but they are suffering from many manmade problems; overfishing, pollution and climate change have all taken their toll. However, it is not too late to do something about these issues. This course will examine the driving forces that are making the seas endangered and will explore marine conservation solutions, including actions you can take to help bring back healthy oceans.

Subject ref:

Biological Sciences

Sustainability

Type ref:

Course code:

2223NOE113

Start date:

Monday, 10 July, 2023 - 01:00 to Sunday, 27 August, 2023 - 01:00

Apply by:

Monday, 10 July, 2023 - 01:00

Course tutor id:

3052

Dr Helen Scales

Course ID:

30930

Tuition fee:

£295

Course programme:

Online Courses

Duration description:

7 Weeks

Non-accredited

Course photo:

City or Town:

Postcode:

Single capacity:

Double capacity:

Twin capacity:

Single usage:

Double usage:

Twin usage:

Maximum places:

Booked places:

Course cancelled:

false

course status ref:

CANCELLED

booking destination ref:

Tutor role ref:

Purpose ref:

Study mode ref:

tab1name:

Course information

tab1html:

Aims of the course:

To introduce the importance of ocean species and habitats and the variety of benefits people derive from them.
To understand the impacts of human activities on the marine environment.
To explore approaches to marine conservation.

Course content overview:

This course will explore the incredible diversity and importance of the world's oceans and coasts. Participants will be introduced to the range of marine habitats and species around the globe and the many benefits people derive from them. We will examine the various threats facing the ocean today and look in detail at the most pressing issues of overfishing and climate change. Having gained insight into the problems the oceans face we then move on to consider the main marine conservation approaches available to address these issues. Key areas we will explore include sustainable fisheries management, marine protected areas, and the importance of consumer choice.

Schedule (this course is completed entirely online):

Orientation Week : 10-16 July 2023

Teaching Weeks: 17 July-20 August 2023

Feedback Week: 21-27 August 2023

Teaching Week 1: Why oceans matter

By studying this week participants should have:

considered the many reasons why the oceans matter
an understanding of the range of ocean habitats and species
an understanding of the broad type of human impacts the oceans face

Teaching Week 2: Are there really plenty more fish in the sea?

By studying this week participants should have:

an appreciation for the long history of people eating - and overeating - seafood
a broad understanding of the current status of global fish stocks
considered some key reasons why the oceans are emptying of fish

Teaching Week 3: Trading the oceans

By studying this week participants should have:

an understanding of the long history of ocean trading and some of the unusual products derived from the sea
an appreciation of the present-day trade in ocean products and the impacts this has on marine life

Teaching Week 4: Climate change and the oceans

By studying this week participants should have:

an understanding of the physical changes taking place in the oceans due to climate change
an understanding of the biological responses to those changes
an understanding of how oceans can be used to help tackle climate change

Teaching Week 5: How to save the oceans

By studying this week participants should have:

an understanding of what Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are and how they are being used in marine conservation
considered the differences between 'top-down' and 'bottom-up' approaches to marine conservation
discussed the role of consumer choice as a marine conservation tool

A Certificate of Participation will be awarded to participants who contribute constructively to weekly discussions and exercises/assignments for the duration of the course.

What our students say:

"The tutor related theory to her practical field experience around the globe, providing evidence for certain assumptions, and links for further reading"

"The tutor's presentation and feedback was informative and helpful. The course was very well organised"

tab2name:

Entry requirements

tab2html:

This course is open to everyone, and you don’t need any previous knowledge or experience of the subject to attend.

Please note that all teaching is in English. You should have near-native command of the English language in order to get the maximum benefit from the course.

For information on bursaries for this course, please see https://www.ice.cam.ac.uk/info/bursaries

tab1order:

tab2order:

Course Image version:

Study level ref: